Name: Moo Shu Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb Foster Farms Simply Raised Thin-Sliced Breast Fillets; 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 2 eggs; 1 cup shiitake mushroom caps; 3 cups bagged shredded cabbage; 2 tsp ginger; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp honey; 2 tsp cornstarch; salt; For Serving:; flour tortillas; mandarin pancakes; sliced green onions; hoisin sauce

Whisk your taste buds away to the exciting flavors of the East with this delicious Moo Shu Chicken. This stir-fry dish combines tender chicken with crunchy cabbage and aromatic mushrooms, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. It's a simple and quick recipe that packs a flavorful punch.

Photos of Moo Shu Chicken Recipe

The main ingredients for this recipe are quite common, but there are a few that you might need to look for. Shiitake mushrooms are usually found in the produce section of most supermarkets or in Asian grocery stores. Hoisin sauce, a thick and fragrant sauce, can be found in the international aisle. Mandarin Pancakes may be a little harder to find - check in the frozen section of an Asian supermarket, or you can substitute with flour tortillas.

Essential Ingredients for Moo Shu Chicken

Chicken breast fillets: The protein of the dish, chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly.

Vegetable oil: Used to cook the eggs and stir-fry the chicken and vegetables.

Eggs: Adds a nice texture and protein boost to the dish.

Shiitake mushrooms: These mushrooms bring a unique, earthy flavor.

Cabbage: Adds crunch and volume to the dish.

Ginger: Brings warmth and zing to the stir-fry.

Soy sauce: This adds umami and saltiness.

Hoisin sauce: Sweet and slightly spicy, this sauce gives the dish its signature flavor.

Sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.

Honey: Balances out the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.

Tortillas or Mandarin pancakes: Used to wrap the stir-fry for eating.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, crisp topping.

One reader, Adrienne Jester says:

This moo shu chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and it's so easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and the delicious sauce is simply irresistible. It's become a family favorite in our house, and I can't wait to make it again!

Adrienne Jester

Cooking Techniques for Moo Shu Chicken

How to cook the chicken: The chicken should be cooked in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes.

How to make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, honey, and 1 tablespoon of water. Then, whisk in the cornstarch until smooth.

Moo shu chicken, also spelled as mu shu chicken, is a tasty dish with chicken breast filets, mushrooms, and cabbage cooked together in a sweet-savory sauce. If you’re into Chinese food with a few Americanized elements, this chicken recipe will be right up your alley! It’s also the perfect meal when you’re way behind in dinner preparations, as it only takes 30 minutes to prep and cook.

I have a weakness for dishes with crunchy veggies and tasty meat slathered with a flavorful sauce. And the moo shu food downright meets all of these criteria, and then some. The moo shu recipe, firmly rooted in northern Chinese cuisine, is also a massive hit in the US. Traditionally, Chinese mu shu food consists of pork, wood ear mushrooms, scrambled eggs, and lily flowers and is usually served with thin flour wrap (or spring pancakes). The American version of this Chinese recipe, on the other hand, uses flour tortillas, napa cabbage, bamboo shoots, and aromatics. Still, it has the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine.

Over time, I’ve tried many variations of the moo shu recipe, from moo shu pork to beef, and even vegetables. And of course, there’s this chicken version, and it was so much better than I’d imagined. Turns out, moo shu chicken is not only delicious, but also easy to recreate at home. With my easy recipe, you can have a healthy dinner brimming with Asian flavors even without visiting your favorite Chinese restaurant.

My version is a bit of a mix of the traditional Chinese and American variations. And I’m super ecstatic to say that it tastes even better than the usual Chinese takeouts! The chicken breast filets, shiitake mushroom caps, and shredded cabbage give my moo shu chicken recipe contrasting textures and flavors. Use a combination of green and purple cabbage for a bit of vibrancy, appearance-wise. This comfort food also gets a kick from a dash of minced ginger.

The sauce is what gives my homemade moo shu chicken an extra oomph of flavors. It has the perfect balance of salty, nutty, and umami flavors. Hoisin sauce and soy sauce, two popular ingredients in Chinese cookery, combine to give this dish salty and umami flavors. You can even add a bit of oyster sauce to amplify the Asian palate even more. There’s also a bit of nuttiness in my sauce coming from the sesame oil. I also tossed in a teaspoon of honey, which provided a hint of delicate sweetness to the sauce.

Cooking dinner is a race against the clock, especially during busy weeknights. I always welcome a few shortcuts to speed up the preparation–without sacrificing the taste of the outcome, of course. Instead of shredding the cabbage yourself, just grab a bagged shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix at the supermarket. Or, buy a prepared package of thinly-sliced shiitake mushrooms. Although, to be honest, the trickiest part of this moo shu chicken recipe is cutting the chicken into thin strips. I opted for pre-cut store-bought chicken breast filets and simply cut the meat crosswise into thinner slices.

If you want to stay true to the traditional recipe, I suggest that you serve moo shu chicken with pancakes. Mu shu chicken and Mandarin pancakes, also called Peking duck pancakes, are the ultimate pairing. But I decided to give this takeout favorite an Americanized spin. I served mine in flour tortillas and drizzled it with extra hoisin sauce. If you’re trying to cut out some carbs, using lettuce leaves to wrap your moo shu chicken is your best option. This vibrant Asian food will definitely be a delicious and healthy addition to your dinner table!

How To Make Moo Shu Chicken

Juicy chicken breast filets, mushrooms, cabbage, and scrambled eggs are cooked in a flavorful sauce to make a delicious moo shu chicken. Serve with Mandarin pancakes, flour tortillas, or your preferred moo shu wrappers.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1 lb Foster Farms Simply Raised Thin-Sliced Breast Filets, cut crosswise into thin slices
1tbsp vegetable oil, divided use
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup shiitake mushroom caps, thinly sliced
3 cups bagged shredded cabbage, such as a coleslaw mix
2 tsp ginger, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp honey
2 tsp cornstarch
Salt, to taste

For Serving:

flour tortillas, or mandarin pancakes
sliced green onions
hoisin sauce

Instructions

Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the eggs and season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook until flat omelet forms for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Carefully flip the eggs and cook on the other side until done for 1 to 2 minutes more.
Remove the eggs from the pan and cut them into strips. Cover to keep warm.
Wipe out the pan with a paper towel.
Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil in the pan.
Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until meat is browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate; cover to keep warm.
Add the cabbage, ginger, and mushrooms to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cabbage is wilted.
Return the chicken and eggs to the pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, honey, and 1 tablespoon of water. Whisk in the cornstarch until smooth.
Add the sauce to the pan and turn the heat to high; bring to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds or just until the sauce starts to thicken.
Serve immediately with tortillas, extra hoisin sauce, and green onions.

Recipe Notes

You can transform this moo shu chicken recipe into a tasty moo shu beef or pork by using beef or pork instead of thinly-sliced chicken breast.
Add a dash of sherry to amp up the flavor of your chicken recipe.
Feel free to serve mu shu chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice.
Top with toasted sesame seeds for a more delightful serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 123.45kcal
Fat: 7.13g
Saturated Fat: 1.13g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.85g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.65g
Carbohydrates: 11.09g
Fiber: 2.05g
Sugar: 5.83g
Protein: 4.68g
Cholesterol: 80.22mg
Sodium: 610.43mg
Calcium: 38.86mg
Potassium: 218.51mg
Iron: 0.91mg
Vitamin A: 37.02µg
Vitamin C: 19.31mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Moo Shu Chicken

When cooking the chicken, ensure that the pan is hot enough before adding the meat. This will help to sear the chicken, locking in the juices and ensuring a tender and flavorful result. Additionally, when adding the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and honey mixture to the pan, make sure to stir continuously to prevent the sauce from burning and to evenly coat the chicken and vegetables. Lastly, when serving, consider warming the flour tortillas or mandarin pancakes slightly for a more authentic and enjoyable eating experience.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Moo Shu Chicken

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan cooking: Use a large skillet to cook everything in one pan, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Pre-shredded cabbage: Save time by using pre-shredded cabbage from the store instead of shredding it yourself.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce and vice versa to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Organized workspace: Keep all ingredients and utensils organized and within reach to streamline the cooking process.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Moo Shu Chicken Recipe

foster farms simply raised thin-sliced breast fillets - Substitute with thinly sliced turkey breast: Turkey breast is a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breast, and it will work well in this recipe.
shiitake mushroom caps - Substitute with cremini mushroom caps: Cremini mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and meaty texture to shiitake mushrooms, making them a suitable replacement.
bagged shredded cabbage - Substitute with shredded bok choy: Bok choy has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture, which can be a great substitute for cabbage in this dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a rich, savory flavor that will complement the other ingredients in the recipe.
hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce offers a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile to hoisin sauce, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
flour tortillas - Substitute with mandarin pancakes: Mandarin pancakes are traditional wrappers for moo shu dishes and will provide an authentic touch to the recipe.
hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce offers a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile to hoisin sauce, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.

Plating Ideas for Moo Shu Chicken

Elevate the plating: As a chef, I would carefully arrange the moo shu chicken and the accompaniments on the plate, ensuring that each component is visually appealing and balanced. The goal is to create a stunning presentation that showcases the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Incorporate artistic garnishes: I would use delicate microgreens and edible flowers to add a pop of color and elegance to the plate. These artistic touches not only enhance the visual appeal but also demonstrate attention to detail and creativity.
Focus on precision: When plating the moo shu chicken, I would pay close attention to the placement of each element, ensuring that the dish looks meticulously crafted. Precision in plating reflects professionalism and dedication to the culinary craft.
Utilize negative space: I would strategically leave some areas of the plate empty to create a sense of balance and sophistication. Embracing negative space allows the dish to breathe and draws attention to the focal points of the presentation.
Incorporate symmetry and asymmetry: By combining both symmetrical and asymmetrical elements in the plating, I would create visual interest and harmony. This approach adds depth to the presentation and captures the eye of the diners.
Highlight the textures: I would emphasize the contrast in textures by layering the ingredients thoughtfully. This would involve showcasing the crispness of the cabbage, the tenderness of the chicken, and the silky smoothness of the sauce, creating a multi-dimensional visual and sensory experience.
Emphasize the use of color: I would carefully select the plate and garnishes to complement the vibrant hues of the moo shu chicken. The harmonious color scheme would enhance the overall visual impact of the dish.
Create a focal point: To draw attention to the star of the dish, I would position the moo shu chicken as the focal point of the plate, using plating techniques to make it the centerpiece of the presentation.

Storing and Freezing Moo Shu Chicken

Let the moo shu chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, transfer the cooled moo shu chicken to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen moo shu chicken will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months. To extend its shelf life further, consider wrapping the container in aluminum foil or placing it inside a larger freezer bag for extra protection against freezer burn.
When ready to enjoy the frozen moo shu chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the thawed dish in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the dish from drying out during reheating.
If you have leftover flour tortillas or mandarin pancakes, store them separately from the moo shu chicken filling. Wrap the tortillas or pancakes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, wrap the tortillas or pancakes in a damp paper towel and microwave in 10-second intervals until warm and pliable.

How To Reheat Moo Shu Chicken Leftovers

Reheat the moo shu chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method will help maintain the texture of the chicken and vegetables.
If you prefer a softer texture, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet while reheating to help moisten the dish.
For a quicker reheating option, microwave the leftover moo shu chicken in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have leftover tortillas or mandarin pancakes, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften them before serving with the reheated moo shu chicken.
To add a fresh touch to your reheated moo shu chicken, garnish with freshly sliced green onions and serve with extra hoisin sauce on the side.
If you find that the reheated dish is a bit dry, try adding a small amount of sesame oil or soy sauce to help revive the flavors and add moisture.

Interesting Trivia About Moo Shu Chicken

The Moo Shu Chicken recipe is a popular dish in American Chinese cuisine. It originated in northern China and traditionally includes scrambled eggs, wood ear mushrooms, and daylily buds. The dish is often served with Mandarin pancakes or flour tortillas for wrapping. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with various vegetables and sauces, making it a favorite for many home cooks.

Budget-Friendly Moo Shu Chicken: Is It Economical?

This moo shu chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients, such as chicken, cabbage, and shiitake mushrooms, are affordable and readily available. The use of simple pantry staples like soy sauce and sesame oil adds flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavors.

Is Moo Shu Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The moo shu chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The use of lean chicken breast fillets and nutrient-dense vegetables like shiitake mushrooms and cabbage provides essential vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of eggs adds additional protein and healthy fats to the dish. The sauce, made with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and honey, adds flavor without relying heavily on unhealthy ingredients.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of oil used in cooking the eggs and chicken to lower the overall fat content
Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the dish's salt content
Increase the proportion of vegetables to chicken for added fiber and nutrients
Opt for whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of regular flour tortillas to increase fiber intake and reduce refined carbohydrates
Use a sugar-free hoisin sauce or replace it with a homemade version using natural sweeteners like dates or applesauce to reduce added sugars

By incorporating more vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts, you can enhance the dish's nutritional value and add more texture and color. Experimenting with different herbs and spices, like garlic, red pepper flakes, or Chinese five-spice powder, can help reduce the need for excessive salt or sugar while maintaining a flavorful profile. Serving the moo shu chicken with a side of brown rice or quinoa can also provide additional fiber and complex carbohydrates to make it a more well-rounded meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Moo Shu Chicken Recipe

The Moo Shu Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and crunchy cabbage create a harmonious combination. The savory and slightly sweet sauce ties everything together beautifully. The addition of eggs adds a lovely richness to the dish. Serving it with flour tortillas or mandarin pancakes allows for a customizable dining experience. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and balanced meal that is sure to impress with its delicious taste and vibrant presentation.

Enhance Your Moo Shu Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Stir-Fried Broccoli with Garlic: Create a flavorful and healthy side dish by stir-frying broccoli with garlic and a touch of soy sauce for a delicious crunch and savory flavor.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Add a touch of sweetness to your meal with grilled pineapple slices, bringing a caramelized and juicy flavor to complement the savory moo shu chicken.

Coconut Rice: Elevate your meal with fragrant and creamy coconut rice, adding a tropical twist to your moo shu chicken dish for a delightful combination of flavors.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Moo Shu Chicken

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It's a quick and easy dish that's sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and savory.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: This lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer meal. The combination of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and succulent shrimp makes for a delicious and satisfying pasta dish.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: This mango coconut rice pudding is a tropical twist on a classic dessert. The creamy coconut milk and sweet mango create a luscious and indulgent treat that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Moo Shu Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with bruschetta topped with a vibrant mix of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. Serve on crispy, toasted bread for a burst of fresh flavors in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying berry parfait. This dessert is not only delicious, but also packed with antioxidants and probiotics for a guilt-free treat.

Share your thoughts on the Moo Shu Chicken recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What is the best way to cook the chicken for this moo shu chicken recipe?

The best way to cook the chicken for this moo shu chicken recipe is to slice the chicken thinly and cook it in a hot skillet with a little oil. This will help the chicken cook quickly and evenly, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Can I substitute the shiitake mushrooms with other types of mushrooms?

Yes, you can definitely substitute shiitake mushrooms with other types of mushrooms such as cremini or button mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as different mushrooms may require different cooking times.

Can I use something other than flour tortillas or mandarin pancakes to serve the moo shu chicken?

Absolutely! You can use lettuce cups, rice paper wrappers, or even steamed buns as alternative serving options for the moo shu chicken. Get creative and use whatever you have on hand or prefer.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas to enhance the flavor and texture.

Can I prepare any part of this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance to save time. However, it's best to cook the chicken and assemble the dish just before serving to ensure the freshest flavors and textures.